Best Honeymoon Destinations For Couples Who Love Exploring Mountains

Away from the hustle and bustle of the city life, the mountains are a perfect calling for newlyweds wanting to spend some quality time with each other. The uninhibited beauty along with the tranquillity and peace is the perfect way for the couple to unwind after all the mayhem of the marriage ceremonies. A quaint and peaceful surrounding with fresh air and breathtaking vistas all around, a honeymoon in the mountains is the perfect way for a couple to shed all the stress and get to know each other.

Here are some mountain destinations for newlywed couples.

#1. Shimla, India

The picturesque surroundings, wonderful climate and snow-capped mountains make this city in Himachal Pradesh a preferred choice for many romantics. A perfect melting pot of British and modern India, Shimla has lots to offer to the newlyweds- from gurgling fresh streams to grand architectures, from forests to swaying fields, and much more.

Image Coutesy: Trans India Travels

Image Courtesy: Wikipedia

Image Courtesy: Shimla View Hotel

#2. Manali, India

Manali in Himachal Pradesh is also a hugely popular choice for newlywed couples. Blessed with breathtaking vistas, sublime weather, rich flora and the majestic snow-capped Himalayas, Manali has all the ingredients of a perfect honeymoon.

Image Courtesy: Wikipedia

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Image Courtesy: Makemytrip

#3. Cairns, Australia

Cairns in Australia offers young couples a charming view of the Great Barrier Reef along with lush green rainforests, magnificent mountains and beautiful beaches- a unique and highly appealing option for those who want to experience it all.

Image Courtesy: Trinity Tropical Oasis

Image Courtesy: Wikipedia

Image Courtesy: Wikipedia

#4. Leh, India

Leh, Ladakh offers the newlyweds an interesting mixture of adventure and romance. Quiet monasteries, clear blue lakes and majestic snow covered mountains provide the perfect setting for creating lifelong beautiful memories. The couple can soak in the natural beauty together or get adventurous, with activities like archery, ice climbing, river rafting etc.

Image Courtesy: Leh Ladakh India

Image Courtesy: Leh (Official Site)
 

Image Courtesy: Leh (Official Site)
 

#5. Srinagar, India

A tempting honeymoon destination since long, Srinagar offers scintillating scenery along with sparkling lakes, high mountains and lush green valleys. The couples can splurge on a luxurious stay in a houseboat in the famous Dal Lake, or roam around hand in hand in the colourful Mughal Gardens.

Image Courtesy: Yatra

Image Courtesy: Srinagar (Official Site)

Image Courtesy: Makemytrip

#6. Big Sur, California

An enchanting mixture of sun-kissed coastlines and majestic mountains, Big Sur in California offers romantic couples the best of both worlds. The placid blue Pacific Ocean gives way to the high Santa Lucia Mountains at its very base.

Image Courtesy: Tripadvisor

Image Courtesy: Wikipedia

Image Courtesy: Tumblr

Also read: 10 Exciting Reasons That Will Convince You To Make Sri Lanka Your Honeymoon Destination

#7. Gangtok, India

The mesmerising hills, the snow covered roads and mountains, and the spellbinding sun rises and sunsets make Gangtok a dream destination for couples in love. The beautiful surroundings along with an array of adventure activities provide the best way for the couples to begin their married life together.

Image Courtesy: Bharari Holidays

Image Courtesy: Mayfair Resorts, Gangtok

Image Courtesy: A Lifetime Trip

#8. Kausani, India

Famed as the ‘Switzerland of India’, Kausani is the epitome of scenic beauty. A pictorial hill station known for its scenic splendour, Kausani is a perfect place for couples looking for a romantic and mesmerising destination. The panoramic view of Himalayas along with fresh air and dense pine forests provide the perfect backdrop for newlyweds to create a strong bond.

Image Courtesy: Wikipedia

Image Courtesy: E Uttaranchal

Image Courtesy: HolidayIQ

Recommended Read: 7 Most Romantic Reasons To Visit Malaysia For Your Honeymoon

We are sure the newlyweds who love travelling and the mountains will surely have a great honeymoon in these gorgeous places. Do tell us how your honeymoon went in the comments section below.

Cover Image Courtesy: Mayfair Resorts, Gangtok

Source: http://www.bollywoodshaadis.com/articles/8-best-honeymoon-destinations-for-couples-who-love-exploring-mountains-4193

Winter special: Take these treks before the snow melts

Winter is here and if slithering through the days in a hibernation mode is all you have planned for this winter, you might want to reconsider it.

Here's a great offer. It is time to be a winter jock this season. If you thought winter is not an ideal season for treks, ixigo the meta search engine recommends these beautiful and enthralling winter treks in India which will for sure prove you wrong.

These snow treks with all-white landscapes are going to provide you with some incredible experiences which you don't read about in the storybooks.

Chadar Trek, Leh-Ladakh

Because ice skating on the rink is too mainstream.

Hit the trekking experience of another level altogether with one of THE MOST DANGEROUS TREKS in the world. Walk on the snow blanket of frozen Zanskar River through the whirly passages of snow-clad mountains. The magical charm and beauty of the snowy valleys are unparalleled. The temperature of the region drops as low as -20-degree celsius by the night. You might want to work on your stamina before you embark on this exhilarating journey.

Altitude: 3,322 m

Level: Difficult

Duration: 9 days, 8 nights

Trek length: 70-100 km

Roopkund Trek, Uttarakhand

A trek to the mystery lake.

A lake filled with 200 human skeletons, perched in the lap of Mt. Trishul! You ought not to miss the spooky yet exciting trek to the Roopkund Lake. The mysterious meanderings of the skeleton lake have fascinated many trekkers and travellers. The trek trail goes through beautiful Rhododendron forests, mountain rivers, and scenic meadows. If you are an avid trekker, put this fascinating winter trek in Uttrakhand on your list.

Altitude: 5,029 m

Level: Moderate

Duration: 8 D/ 7N

Trek Length: 53 km

Kedarkantha Trek, Uttarakhand

A whiplash with snowy delights.

One of the easiest treks in the Himalayas, Kedarkantha winter trek is a delight for those who like the snow. The trek spans through astounding landscape passing through beautiful hamlets, snowy courses, and breathtaking views of majestic Himalayas. Feel yourself lucky gazing at the great mountain ranges, such as Swargarohini, Bandarpunch, and Black Peak. It is a great getaway trek from Delhi. Do not forget to make a snowman.

Altitude: 3,850 m

Level: Easy

Duration: 6D/5N

Trek Length: 20 km

Nag Tibba Trek

Trek all the way to the humble abode of Nag Devta.

Humming with a rich diversity of birds and animal, Nag Tibba trek is a visual treat for the first time trekkers. Be a spectator to the splendid views of Chanabang and Doon Valley and the great Gangotri Peaks. It is a circular trek which at no point overlaps the trail. Hence, enjoy a myriad of delighting nature scenes. Another great thing about this trek is its exquisite camping sites.

Altitude: 3,050 m

Level: Easy

Duration: 3D/2N

Trek Length: 20 km

ChoptaChandrashila Trek, Uttarakhand

Lo, and behold the beautiful panoramas of the Garhwal region!

Chandrashila Trek is an all-season trek that provides you with all-embracing views of the Garhwal Himalayas and the beautiful views of Nanda Devi, Kedar, Trishul and Chaukhamba peaks. Chopta, 'the Mini Switzerland of India', is where you will get a chance to surpass breathtaking pastures laden with snow. This winter trek in India takes you through Tungnath, where the highest temple of Lord Shiva is situated.

Altitude: 4,023 m

Level: Easy

Duration: 5D/4N

Trek Length: 20 km

Brahma Tal Trek, Uttrakhand

Return to the blue lagoon!

A rare and exceptional winter trek, Brahmatal Trek could be the best trek of your life. A good dollop of snow and a beautiful lagoon nestled between the snow-capped mountains are enough reasons to go for this winter trek. The trails wind through verdant forests and beautiful meadows, which will sure take your breath away. The views that this trek offers will leave you gaping out of wonder and delight.

Altitude: 3,352 m

Level: Moderate

Duration: 6D/5N

Trek Length: 30 km

Harki Dun Trek, Uttrakhand

Arrive at the amphitheater of Gods!

Boy! This trek is a bundle of joy with its beautiful valleys and amazing views that feel straight out of a fairytale. The arduous trek is a delight in winter springs with everything covered in an ivory sheen. Walking through the snowy trail, one can see the lofty mountain peaks rising on either side of the valley. This winter trek should be on every trekking enthusiast's list.

Altitude: 3,566 m

Level: Difficult

Duration: 8D/7N

Trek Length: 77 km

Goecha La Trek, Sikkim

Perch in nature's lap.

Cradled between the imposing peaks of Sikkim, Nepal, China, and Bhutan, lies a land of unparalleled beauty which invites trekkers and adventurists. Embark on the daredevil Goecha La trek that passes through scenic Yuksom-Dzongri pass and grand views of Mt. Kanchenjunga. Feel close to nature as you pass through the forests of Rhododendrons to the valleys wrapped with lichens and moss.

Altitude: 4,206 m

Level: Difficult

Duration: 10 D/9 N

Trek Length: 60 km on one side

Kauri Pass Trek, Uttarakhand

A snow-laden paradise!

The greatest discovery of Lord Curzon, Kauri Pass in Uttarakhand is one of the best places to trek in December. The trek begins from Joshimath which is an evolved hub for trekkers and pilgrims. Behold the imposing views of the stalwart Himalayan peaks and confluences of the buzzing rivers. Walk through the luxurious Himalayan meadows called 'Bugyals' and the verdant Oak and Deodar forests where you may even find the pug marks of a leopard or the Himalayan Black Bear.

Altitude: 4,268 m

Level: Moderate

Duration: 4 -6 days

Trek Length: 33 km

Still planning to stay indoors this winter? Let's hope not. Be a sport and build some endurance before you set about on these intriguing winter treks in India. If not now, when?

This tiny hill-station in Maharashtra is an ideal monsoon destination

Though one can head to Matheran in any season, the monsoons add a distinctive charm to the tiny Maharashtra hill-station. Abundantly blessed by Mother Nature, Matheran’s beauty gets magnified when the clouds shower generously.

VIEW OF THE WESTERN GHATS FROM MATHERAN.

The hill-station is about 111 kilometres via Neral from Mumbai (India’s financial capital) and about 120 kilometres from Pune (Maharashtra’s cultural capital).

During the monsoons, one can find a thick canopy of clouds, waterfalls and lush green hilly slopes and fields. The misty view and the downpour will take you closer to nature.

The Charlotte Lake, the Alexander Point, The Monkey Point, the Echo point and the Panorama point are some of the places one can visit in Matheran.

Pachmarhi in Madhya Pradesh: The tallest and only ‘Queen of Satpura’

The state located in the centre of India – Madhya Pradesh – is home to a number of fine marvels created by man and Mother Nature’s bounty. Among the many wonders that attract tourists to MP is the hill station of Pachmarhi, which is believed to be the tallest and the only ‘Queen of Satpura’.

Located at a height of 1100 meters, Pachmarhi has strong links with ancient Indian epic Mahabharata. Legend has it that the caves here were dug by the five Pandava brothers during their period of exile and hence the name – Pachmarhi (pach meaning five and marhi meaning cave).

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Interestingly,this gorgeous place has been listed in the UNESCO Biospehere Reserve for its variety of flora and fauna.

Here are the tourist hotspots in and around Pachmarhi - The Mahadeo hills, Chhota Mahadeo, Dhoopgarh, Satpura National Park, Handi Khoh, Pandava Caves, Rajat Pratap Waterfall and Jata Shankar Caves. 

Leh Ladakh tour: Six day itinerary in 60 seconds – Check out!

Leh and Ladakh in the state of Jammu & Kashmir will be ideal for adventure enthusiasts or nature lovers.

The serenity and indescribable beauty of this region have attracted tourists from the world over. Abundantly blessed by Mother Nature, Leh and Ladakh treasure many of world's most picturesque locations.

The calmness of nature, the view of the vast horizon, the snow-capped peaks of the Himalayas, the crystal clear water of the lakes will leave you mesmerised.

If you are planning a vacation this summer and wish to visit Leh and Ladakh, the video embedded below will come in handy. Check it out now:

Dambuk in Arunachal: Reaching this land of oranges is an adventure in itself

They say getting to Dambuk in the Lower Dibang Valley, which is said to be India's 10th-least populous district, is an adventure itself. I couldn't agree more as I had to ride through water and forests to reach the north-eastern border state's land of oranges.

After taking a flight from Delhi to Guwahati, I, along with a few other journalists, boarded a mini bus to reach Arunachal Pradesh's capital Itanagar. The festive season seemed to be in full swing as some of the trees were lit up by star lampshades.

We halted there for a night. The next day, packed in an SUV, we crossed a few tea estates in Assam, which border Arunachal Pradesh. Then we entered Pasighat in Arunachal Pradesh. What followed was an off-roading adventure as we drove on anything but surfaced roads.

Once the tough terrain was over, we landed in the orange orchards in Dambuk, which remains cut off from the rest of the world during the monsoon. That's the time when the residents opt for elephant rides.

So, it was interesting to see a few off-roaders -- modified Gypsies and Jeeps -- engaged in challenging tasks to try and win the JK Tyre Orange 4x4 Fury championship, which was a part of the Orange Festival of Adventure & Music.

It wasn't just the participants who got the rugged vehicles. I was given an ATV to reach our accommodation -- a humble hut.

As I lay on my bed with three blankets on, I could see the clear sky, the gleaming stars and the white moon. Then came the actual challenge -- to apply make-up or shave without a mirror. But it seemed most people had mastered the art of using a razor or make-up tools without seeing their reflection as no one stepped out with cuts on their face or looking like a raccoon.

Then we headed out to watch the participating teams race on a river-bed. As the drivers did their thing, I sat down on the rocks and ate hot samosas, oranges and, of course, drank juice . With bountiful nature, it was the perfect spot to enjoy a holiday.

Later that day, the participants had to race down a 45 degree hillside and then make a rough 75 degree climb to complete the stage. I stood there with my mouth wide open in the middle of the road along with the locals, including school children and women.

Thank god the festival had music too as I had enough of an adrenaline rush. I was looking forward to some good food as well. While we were being mostly served rice, lentils and cabbage and potato dish at the huts, the fest offered much more. My favourite was the hot dog with fried chicken from a food truck that had come all the way from Itanagar.

The next day was for river rafting. I was initially nervous as I am a non-swimmer. But with the life-jacket and helmet on, I felt immortal.

I didn't paddle when we started off. Since we had to cover a distance of 12 km, I thought of trying it. Everyone said that the rapids weren't as strong as the ones in Rishikesh in Uttarakhand, but I enjoyed it till the time I got all drenched.

After drying up, we left for the headline act -- the Swedish guitarist Yngwie Malmsteen. I am not a fan of heavy metal music, still I felt pumped up. I also played an air guitar.

Soon it was time to head back to the city. Once the chopper started, I wondered whether to use my hands to shut my ears to avoid the loud noise of the engine or close my nose as there was a strong smell of fuel.

Within 30 minutes, we reached Dibrugarh in Assam. Five hours later I was back in Delhi.

It felt good to return to my family in a well-built house and not a cold hut. But I will miss waking up to the sound of chirping birds and the roar of modified vehicles.

Plan to visit the village in winter? Arm yourself with a tent, woollens, torch, raincoat, salt or lighter as blood-sucking leeches come out during rainfall.

By Natalia Ningthoujam

Magnificent Mountains Turning Into Snow Wonderlands.

Winter is coming and along with it the beautiful snow. These mountains are beautiful in summer and good for trecking. But in winters their beauty is beyond comparision.

The images below will force you to pack your bags and plan a romantic trip in the incredible snowy mountains. Have a great winter!

Yellowstone Club, Montana.

Val d'Isere, France.

Dolomites, Italy.

Nozawa Onsen, Japan.

Megeve, France.

Kitzbuhel, Austria.

San Carlos De Bariloche, Argentina.

Mammoth Mountain, California.

Bighorn Revelstoke, Canada.

Aspen, Colorado.